Artwork, especially art that reminds me of a potential self-portrait, is thought-provoking. As I walked through a European city’s streets recently, the artwork on the side of a building exemplified what I imagined drawing if I was painting my portrait. It captures the externals while reflecting the characters and noise within that make me who and what I am.
As I reflect on the details within me, I am confronted by the question of what I am revealing to others. I know others see more than I want them to see. I understand others think of me with a frame of reference grounded in experience, behaviours, and the impact I have had on the lives around me. For myself, I find myself sharing life’s whispers as reminders for the day ahead.
Take care of yourself, it is the foundation for helping others in the way s/he need to be helped. If I cannot breathe, I will not be able to help you breathe. If I am unable to move quickly, I may not be able to reach you in a time of trouble. In starting within, I find myself embracing what Divinity has done for me. In turn, I see the opportunity to support Divinity’s efforts when the opportunity arises.
Support for another is not the same as knowing what the other needs. It is easy to think I know. At times, my actions suggest to others that my way is the best. Hopefully, it is for me. There is no chance that it is for anyone else. Advice offered years ago rings authentically in my ears; “Cultivate your own relationship with God, but don’t impose it on others. You’re fortunate if your behavior and your belief are coherent.” (Romans 14.22)
Today will be a reveal of my heart and the values and priorities within it. If what is shown falls short of my dreams, then I will hear a call for recreation. If my reveal speaks to kindness and care, I can anticipate a caring call to make a positive difference for those around me.
